Pipeline project complete for Hydratight

Joint integrity specialist Hydratight has completed an upgrade project on a section of subsea pipeline on the North West Shelf of Western Australia.

Contracted by Western Australia-based Quadrant Energy Pty Ltd on behalf of the John Brookes Joint Venture, Hydratight engineered, manufactured, delivered and supported the installation of an 18 in. MORGRIP(R) connector on the John Brookes subsea pipeline located 54 km northeast of Quadrant’s Varanus Island facilities.

Two of Hydratight’s most experienced engineers, Mark Fisher and Bob Till, who have been in senior industry roles for a combined 65 years, were embedded in the offshore installation team.

“This was an exciting project to be part of due to strict safety and environmental expectations in place,” explained Mark. “These included working closely with a DNV inspector who flew in from Singapore to witness all aspects of the upgrade. It also meant an independent critique of our manufacturing procedures.”

“The component parts were of extremely high specifications and we had strict rules on forging and manufacturing. These included the use of a compliant biodegradable mineral hydraulic fluid used for activating the tensioners and flushing and cleansing all tooling. We ensured no other unassessed hydraulic fluid was used.”

A representative from Quadrant Energy oversaw the factory acceptance test of the completed connector in the UK, before witnessing a second test and diver training on arrival in Australia.

Bespoke features were included on the engineered product. These included corrosion resistant alloy cladding, composite graphite seals, Hydratight’s ball and taper technology and also the company’s subsea tensioning equipment.

Mark added: “We were pleased to be able to provide face-to-face technical support to Quadrant prior to and during this challenging international project.”

The MORGRIP series of connectors is known for a leak-free record since they were first installed in the 1980s as an alternative to welding. They take less manpower and fewer man hours during commissioned projects. The technology is a permanent solution, yet the connector can be detached and reused.

The National Energy Board has stated that the project is still in the public interest and that the original conditions attached to the project will require that it be designed, constructed and operated in a way that is safe and protects the environment.